Six teams chase WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup glory in Okinawa and a trophy for the ages

After six days of thrilling Opening Round action at the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup 2025 presented by RAXUS in Okinawa, Japan, the stage is now set for the final run home. The six teams in the Super Round - Japan, USA, Korea, Chinese Taipei, Panama, Puerto Rico - remain in contention for U-18 Baseball World Cup honours, each with their eyes on the ultimate prize as the Super Round begins Thursday.

And what a prize it is.

The WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup trophy - designed and crafted by renowned Italian goldsmith Fratelli Pazzaglia - is a masterpiece of sporting artistry. Made of polished 24k gold-plated brass with vibrant enamel and colored detailing, it stands 43 cm tall and weighs an impressive 10 kg. Its sleek curves evoke both the form of a baseball and the elegance of a batter’s swing, blending power with finesse.

Every element of the trophy reflects precision craftsmanship. The brass components are shaped with state-of-the-art Computer Numerical Control 3/5-axis machine tools, then finished by hand in keeping with Italy’s rich tradition of artisanal excellence. To achieve its dazzling contrasts, each piece undergoes galvanic treatments where layers of gold and silver are applied, followed by either a polished or satin finish.

This year marks the 32nd edition of the U-18 Baseball World Cup, a tournament steeped in history. Cuba and USA remain the most decorated nations, with 11 and 10 titles respectively, while Japan won it for the first time at the previous edition in 2023 but as Sunday’s final approaches, one question looms large: Who will lift the trophy this time?

WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup podiums

WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup overall record